1795 1/2C LE, Punctuated Date, BN

The 1795 1/2 cent Liberty Cap, known for its distinctive Punctuated Date, represents the early history of U.S. coinage. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint, these coins are cherished by collectors, not only for their rarity but also for their historical significance. The Punctuated Date variety is so named because of the noticeable dash between the digits of the date "1795" on the obverse. This particular detail makes it a standout piece from the era of early American coinage.

The 1795 1/2 cent, Liberty Cap series, had a total mintage of 139,690 coins. However, the Punctuated Date is a variety within this mintage, which means its availability is even more limited. This rarity is compounded by the fact that many early copper coins suffered significant wear or damage over time due to circulation and the primitive minting techniques of the period. From a numismatist's perspective, the intrigue surrounding this coin goes beyond mere numbers.

This classic piece reflects the infancy of the American monetary system, during a time when the nation was still experimenting with its currency and finding its footing on the world stage. Collectors value the piece not just for the copper it was struck from, but for what it represents in terms of American history and the emergence of a national identity. The coin's value is significant, especially in higher grades.

For instance, recent sales data show that a high-grade example of the 1795 1/2 cent Liberty Cap, Punctuated Date, has fetched prices well into the tens of thousands of dollars at auction. These prices reflect the coin's condition, provenance, and demand among collectors who seek to own a piece of early American numismatic history. PCGS, which certifies the authenticity and grade of coins, references this coin under the PCGS #1016.

This ensures buyers and collectors of both its authenticity and condition. The BN designation in the title refers to the coin's "Brown" color, a typical patina for copper coins of this age due to oxidation over time. The rarity and value of the 1795 1/2 cent Liberty Cap, Punctuated Date, are both fortified by its elusive nature and fascinating backstory. As collectors continue to seek this rare piece to complete their early copper collections, its legacy as an emblem of America's formative years persists undiminished. These coins remain highly coveted among numismatists, a symbol of both the monetary and cultural history of the United States.